In Islamic beliefs, a major sin (gunāh-e kabīrah) is a sin that deserves punishment. The classification of major sins varies between different Islamic sects, such as Shia and Sunni. Stay with us to learn more.
Major sins (al-kabā’ir), meaning great sins, are those for which punishment has been promised in the Qur’an and hadiths. There is disagreement regarding the number and specific names of these sins — some sources count as few as 7, while others list over 40. Verses 31 of Surah An-Nisa and 37 of Surah Ash-Shura mention certain sins explicitly as major. In hadith collections, there are also dedicated chapters addressing major sins.
A person who commits a major sin and does not repent is considered fāsiq (a rebellious sinner). According to Islamic jurisprudence, such a person is not qualified to lead prayers, their testimony is not accepted in courts, and unless Allah’s grace intervenes (such as through the intercession of the Prophet and his family), they are destined for punishment after death.
Islamic scholars classify sins into two categories:
Major sins (Kabā’ir)
Minor sins (Ṣaghā’ir)
This classification is derived from the Qur’an and hadiths. For example, the Qur’an says:
“If you avoid the major sins which you are forbidden, We will remove from you your minor sins and admit you to a noble entrance [into Paradise].” (Qur’an 4:31)
Another verse says:
“The record [of deeds] will be placed [open], and you will see the sinners fearful of what is in it. They will say: ‘Woe to us! What is this book that leaves nothing small or great but has enumerated it!’” (Surah Al-Kahf, 49)
Regarding the righteous, the Qur’an states that the eternal blessings of the Hereafter are for those who avoid major sins and indecencies.
From these verses, it is clear that sins are categorized as major and minor. Also, it shows that some sins are not forgiven without sincere repentance, while others may be forgiven more easily.
Ethical scholars consider any sin, whether major or minor, to be serious as it involves disobedience to God. The distinction between major and minor refers to their severity in relation to one another.
Criteria for major sins include:
If the Qur’an or hadith explicitly labels a sin as a major one.
If a sin is associated with the threat of Hellfire in the Qur’an or hadith.
If a sin is considered worse than another known major sin.
If the devout and religious community universally regards a sin as major, especially if believers during the time of the Imams held that view.
Repetition of a minor sin can make it major.
Some jurists also consider ta‘zir (discretionary punishment) a sign that a sin is major.
Even among major sins, not all are equal. Some, like shirk (associating partners with God), are never forgiven without repentance. Others may be forgiven under certain conditions through good deeds or divine mercy.
It is narrated that one day, ‘Amr ibn ‘Ubayd came to Imam Ja‘far al-Sadiq, recited the verse:
“Those who avoid major sins and shameful acts…” (Surah Ash-Shura - 37),
and then paused.
The Imam asked why he had stopped. ‘Amr said he wanted the Imam to explain what the major sins were. The Imam responded:
The greatest of all sins. The Qur’an says:
“Indeed, whoever associates others with Allah — Allah has forbidden Paradise for him, and his abode is the Fire.” (Surah Al-Ma'idah - 72)
Despair is considered disbelief. The Qur’an states:
“Do not despair of the mercy of Allah. Indeed, none despairs of Allah’s mercy except the disbelieving people.” (Surah Yusuf - 87)
Only the wicked feel immune from Allah’s punishment.
“None feels secure from the plan of Allah except the losers.” (Surah Al-A‘raf - 99)
The disobedient child is called oppressor and wretched in the Qur’an.
(Surah Maryam - 32)
“Whoever kills a believer intentionally — his recompense is Hell, wherein he will abide eternally…” (Surah An-Nisa - 93)
“Indeed, those who accuse chaste, unsuspecting believing women are cursed in this world and the Hereafter…” (Surah An-Nur - 23)
“Indeed, those who consume the property of orphans unjustly are only consuming fire into their bellies…” (Surah An-Nisa - 10)
“Whoever turns his back to them on such a day… his refuge is Hell.”
“Those who consume interest cannot stand [on the Day of Judgment] except as one stands who is being beaten by Satan into insanity.”
“And they knew that whoever purchases magic would have no share in the Hereafter.”
“Whoever commits adultery shall receive doubled punishment on the Day of Judgment, and remain in disgrace in Hell.” (Surah Al-Furqan - 68)
“Those who exchange the covenant of Allah and their oaths for a small price — they will have no share in the Hereafter.”
“Whoever betrays will be recompensed for his betrayal on the Day of Judgment.” (Surah Al ‘Imran - 161)
“On the Day when their wealth is heated in the Fire of Hell and branded on their foreheads, flanks, and backs…” (Surah At-Tawbah - 35)
“…Whoever gives false testimony is not a believer…” (Surah Al-Furqan - 72)
“Do not conceal testimony, for whoever conceals it — his heart is indeed sinful.” (Surah Al-Baqarah - 283)
Alcohol and intoxicants are strictly forbidden, just like idolatry. The Prophet said:
“Whoever deliberately abandons prayer is no longer under my protection.”
“Upon them is the curse of Allah, and theirs is the worst home.” (Surah Ar-Ra’d - 25)
After hearing this, ‘Amr ibn ‘Ubayd left the Imam weeping and trembling, saying:
“Perished is the one who issues fatwas by personal opinion and thinks himself equal in knowledge to you.”
Repentance (tawbah) from major sins is similar to repentance from other sins, though details may vary. Some sins involve only the rights of Allah, like adultery, while others involve both God and people’s rights, like theft.
For sins against Allah:
Genuine regret
Firm intention not to return to the sin
Making up missed obligations (e.g., missed prayers or fasts)
For sins against people:
In addition to repentance, one must compensate the victim — unless the victim forgives.
If someone dies without repenting and the hardships of life haven't atoned for their sins, they deserve punishment unless Allah’s grace intervenes. One such mercy is intercession (shafā‘ah). The Prophet (peace be upon him) said:
“I have reserved my intercession for those among my ummah who commit major sins.”
The righteous — those who avoid major sins — will not be held accountable in the same way.
